Do you want to explore very deep forests, where you may hardly find
sun light on the ground? If yes, then Catigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the most
suitable place in Goa.
Established in 1969 to save the forest lining on the border of Goa and
Karnataka, this wildlife sanctuary is spread in 85.65 sq km of mixed
deciduous woodland. This wildlife sanctuary inspires all the tree lovers.
One river named Talpona flows through the sanctuary, while the other one
River Galjibaga runs through the south-eastern boundary of Cotigao.
One road passes through the wildlife sanctuary. It is fairly difficult in
some areas so it would test your navigational skills. However, cool lush
greenery will rejuvenate your senses while your walk through the wildlife
sanctuary. Come and enjoy sweet chirping of the birds and other sounds of
forests while your trip in the sanctuary.
The Flora
Moist-deciduous type trees are main vegetation of Cotigao Sanctuary. Some
of the trees attain the heights up to 30 metres. This vegitation is
interspersed with semi-green and evergreen forests.
The Fauna
Unfortunately Catigao Wildlife Sanctuary offers limited wildlife sights. The
reason is that all the tigers and leopards of the forests were hunted out
long ago. However you may spot Wild boars, two species of Monkey and Gaurs.
You may also find other animals including Bison, Langur, Pangolin, Deer,
Black Panther, Gazelles, Porcupines, Sloth Bears, Hyenas and Panthers
besides these animals.
The Activities
Trek along the mud trails and take a trial at Bhutpal. You can climb 18 m
high ladder into a treetop shelter. You will have a picturesque view of
waterhole located very near and its scenic surroundings. Walk further to
enchanting location of Bela Lake. This lake inside the sanctuary is just 2.5
km from Hathipal Eco-tourism complex. Visit Nature Interpretation Centre
which has several Botanical and faunal exhibits as an interesting diversion.
Several charming Bandharas and waterholes at Catigao Wildlife Sanctuary.
Climb into 3-m high watch tower at Tulsimol. You can see animals who come to
drink water especially during early morning and late evening hours.
Location
In east Canacona Taluka, 86 km from Goa's capital
Best Season
October to March
Entry Fee
Rs for Adult, Rs 2 for Child (additional for camera and vehicles)
Where to Stay
Hathipal Eco-tourism Complex of Forest Department has a 6-bedded cottage, a
3-bedded cottage and 5 thatched tents. The complex is open during October to
April. A Forest Rest House is also available for you at Poinguinim, but it
is mostly used by forest officers. In case you want to go for an overnight
stay, either in watchtower or forest department's rest house, you should
take the prior permission from Deputy Conservator Of Forests.
How to Reach
Dabolim airport is 75 km away from Cotigao. This airport has flights from
almost all the major cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. You can hire
taxi to reach the sanctuary then onwards. he nearest railheads from Cotigao
are Margao (53 km) and Panaji (86 km). Buses ply to Karwar halt at Canacona
from then onwards. Buses plying south on NH 17 to Karwar halt via Chaudi
will drop you well within the periphery of 2 km.
